Westfield Arts College is a Dorset special school for 230 pupils from 4 to 19 with moderate learning difficulties and associated additional needs. Over half of our pupils have autism in addition to their learning need. Pupils come to us from all over Dorset.

Westfield pupils access the full National Curriculum, adapted and delivered at a level and pace that suits their rate of learning and cognition. In addition, a very strong emphasis is placed on the wider curriculum, practical learning and independent living skills in preparation for adulthood. We have particularly strong provision in the Arts, Sports, outdoor education and personal development.

Every class is supported with regulation, sensory, visual and communication strategies. Pupils whose needs are more complex are placed in smaller class groups. Pupils with an ASD diagnosis are supported in a class group which best meets their needs. The school uses an approach to supporting behaviour called Therapeutic Thinking, and uses a range of strategies, including PEIC-D and intensive interaction, to support communication development and readiness for learning.

Westfield provides a well-regarded outreach service through TADSS (Teaching Alliance of Dorset Special Schools) to local primary and secondary mainstream schools and works with their staff to develop skills and strategies to meet the needs of pupils effectively. Staff training is also included in the outreach offer, as well as in-reach visits to Westfield to observe good practice.

Westfield coordinates and delivers EarlyBird and EarlyBird Plus courses for parent carers and professionals across Dorset.